Rubber Lined Steel: A Solution for the Chemical Processing Industry

Corrosion is a significant concern for workers in a chemical processing plant, and for this reason, many workers prefer to steer away from steel piping throughout the construction. However, steel pipes have many important advantages, such as a certain level of resistance to stains and corrosion, durability for a good price, strength in extreme temperatures, reduced weight throughout construction, and a lot of versatility. It just doesn’t make sense to ignore those positive qualities of steel. Is there a viable solution?

The Value of Rubber Linings

Many industrial worksite managers turn to rubber lined pipe. The linings stand up to both abrasive and erosive products. The linings protect pipes from corrosion and damage. This composite piping is a practical solution that makes a lot of sense in the chemical processing industry. One of the most important benefits to using pipes lined with rubber is the reduced risk of leaks. Rubber linings are a proven solution when it comes to keeping dangerous gases and liquids contained.

The Vulcanized Bond Between Steel and Rubber

The bond between the steel pipe and the rubber lining delivers high-quality results. Through a vulcanization process, rubber sheets of the liner are applied over the internal surfaces of the piping. The first step in this process is surface preparation; scale, rust, and debris are removed with wire brushing or sandblasting. Once the surface is clean, the lining material is applied and then cured. Curing the lining, or vulcanizing it, is completed through the use of steam or hot water at a specified temperature.

After the vulcanization process is complete, the lined surface is inspected for problems including bubbles, blistering, and pinholes. Finally, the lined pipes are hydro tested. The careful process of creating the lined pipes ensures high-quality results that chemical processing workers rely on for worker safety and the safe transportation of potentially harmful products.  

A Versatile Solution

Project managers, plant owners, and workers within the chemical processing industry value the benefits of rubber lined steel pipes. These products have the advantages of time-proven results and ongoing innovation.